Mexico beats South Korea 1-0, becomes first team into round of 32
What's next: Mexico has six points and already won Group A, while South Korea stays on three before its final match with South Africa.
Mexico reached the World Cup knockout stage with a 1-0 win over South Korea on Thursday in Zapopan, becoming the first team to clinch a place in the new 32-team elimination round. Luis Romo scored in the 50th minute after South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu collided with defender Lee Gi-hyuk and spilled the ball in front of goal. Mexico goalkeeper Raúl Rangel preserved the lead late, stopping Cho Gue-sung's header in the 87th minute and then keeping out Yang Hyun-jun on the rebound. The result lifted the co-hosts to six points from two matches and secured first place in Group A after Czech Republic and South Africa drew 1-1 earlier Thursday in Atlanta.